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The Duplin Journal strives to elevate the conversation within the community, and what better way to do that than to get to know our county’s leaders? In our first Q&A, we sat down with Duplin County Schools (DCS) Superintendent Dr. Austin Obasohan, and asked him not only about challenges facing our public schools, but more personal questions like what’s the last book he read and what restaurants he frequents in the community. It’s all a way to get to know those who are leading Duplin County beyond headlines and public meetings.
When did you start as Duplin County Schools superintendent? I was welcomed into the DCS family as Superintendent in July of 2010.
What made you want to be part of the public school system? I believe that God has a master plan for our lives, and I am thankful that He called me to serve in the field of education. He ignited a passion in me to work alongside children (and adults) as they teach, learn, grow and flourish spiritually and educationally. He used public education as a platform for me to serve his most precious gifts, our children, and for that I am most grateful.
How has the school system changed during your tenure as superintendent? Building upon the foundation and successes of previous administrations, Duplin County Schools continues to work collaboratively with the community to prepare all students for career, college, and life success in a globally competitive society. Our Board of Education provides strong leadership and supports our schools in ways that allow students to thrive in school and beyond graduation. As the district increased its emphasis on career and college readiness for all students and transitioned from 16 to 13 schools, a focus on personalized pathways for all students through the STEAMA (i.e., Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math, Agriculture) model opened doors for students to connect classroom learning with career opportunities.
What’s the biggest challenge facing Duplin County Schools right now?The biggest challenge facing Duplin County Schools and schools across our nation is addressing the social, emotional, and academic gaps of students post the COVID-19 pandemic. Navigating the COVID-19 pandemic brought tremendous challenges and opportunities that further highlighted the changing needs of our school families. While the impacts of those changes will affect our district for years to come, Duplin County Schools can tackle challenges and solve problems by working with our community as one family.
What’s the one thing you wish more people understood about the public school system? One thing that I wish more people understood about the public school system is that we need highly qualified teachers to ensure its success. The nationwide teacher shortage is a crisis and a challenge faced by most school systems. We must bring respect back to the teaching profession, so that our public schools can thrive. In order to meet the individual needs of students, our educators must do much more than teach. They wear many hats (e.g., teacher, parent, mentor, counselor, etc.). We need strong, unwavering school-to-home partnerships so that our children can succeed in school and at home. If we show our educators how much they are valued and respected, more people may go into the field and the pool of highly-qualified teachers will grow.
How does the public education system in the U.S. compare to where you’re from in Africa? Education systems around the world are very unique and, at the same time, similar in many ways. In my home country, teachers are one of the most respected people in the community. Limited resources and access in certain areas foster a genuine appreciation for education and a collaborative community effort to educate all children. We know that every child has the capacity to learn, no matter where they live, their religious beliefs, or their ethnicity. In the U.S., resources are plentiful and we must not take that for granted. It is our responsibility to be good stewards of those resources to ensure equal opportunities and access to a quality education for all children, so that their dreams can become reality.
On a more personal note, what do you like to do in your spare time? In my spare time, I treasure spending time with my family.
What is the last book you read? Recently, I had the pleasure of reading Leading the Calling, by Kathy Spencer, Ed.D. and Lesley Eason, Ed.D. and also Trust & Inspire, by Stephen M.R. Covey.
What’s your favorite eatery in Duplin County? Those who know me well know how much I enjoy a variety of delicious foods. It is difficult to choose a favorite eatery, as there are a number of amazing restaurants in Duplin County with superb food and excellent service. Special thanks to all those who have satisfied my hunger and treated me so well over the years!
What, in your opinion, is the best thing about living in Duplin County?In my opinion, the best thing about living in Duplin County is that it is faith-based oriented with a community spirit second to none.
